What Are the OSHA Eye Wash Station Requirements?

In a case study published by a medical school in Wisconsin, a 31-year-old automotive technician was working under the hood of a vehicle when the car battery unexpectedly exploded. The blast sprayed chemicals onto his face, causing immediate pain in his left eye and surrounding skin. Fortunately, the shop had an accessible emergency eyewash station, which the worker used right away before being taken to the nearest emergency department. Despite this quick response, he suffered a chemical burn to his left eye.

Chemical eye burns are a medical emergency. Without immediate flushing, injuries like this can lead to permanent vision loss. Incidents of this nature are not uncommon. In 2020 alone, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported over 18,510 eye-related injury or illness cases that resulted in at least one day away from work. Across industries, from laboratories to construction sites, workers are exposed to hazards such as corrosive chemicals, airborne particles, and mechanical debris.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) addresses this risk through 29 CFR 1910.151(c), which requires employers to provide suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body where employees may be exposed to injurious caustic chemicals. To support compliance, I will help answer the most frequently asked questions about OSHA eyewash station requirements.

Key Takeaways

• OSHA requires eye wash stations to be accessible within 10 seconds of hazardous areas, which is generally interpreted as approximately 55 feet, though this may vary depending on obstacles and facility layout.

• Eye wash stations must provide a minimum water flow of 0.4 gallons per minute for at least 15 minutes, deliver tepid water between 60°F and 100°F, and feature hands-free operation that activates in one second or less.

• Regular maintenance and inspection of eye wash stations are crucial, including weekly activation of plumbed stations, monthly checks of portable stations, and annual thorough evaluations of all components.

• Employers must provide comprehensive training on the use of eye wash stations, covering their locations, proper activation and use, and procedures for seeking additional medical attention.

What Are the OSHA Requirements for Eye Wash Stations?

OSHA has established specific emergency eyewash station requirements to protect workers from potential eye injuries caused by exposure to hazardous materials. The primary standard governing these requirements is 29 CFR 1910.151(c), which states:

"Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use."

However, this regulation does not specify detailed design or installation standards for eyewash stations. Instead, OSHA often refers to the more detailed ANSI/ISEA Z358.1-2014 guidelines when evaluating whether a facility meets the intent of the standard.

Key OSHA Eyewash Requirements

Many employers mistakenly believe a basic sink or bottle of saline qualifies as an emergency eyewash. In most cases, these do not meet OSHA’s expectations if a corrosive hazard is present. According to ANSI/ISEA Z358.1, a compliant eyewash station should have:

• • Accessibility within 10 seconds of hazardous areas

  • Proper signage and visibility

  • Hands-free operation

  • Suitable water flow and temperature

  • Regular maintenance and inspection

Because 29 CFR 1910.151(c) is intentionally broad and lacks detailed specifications, it often leads to confusion among employers and safety professionals. OSHA issues interpretation letters to clarify how these regulations apply in specific situations. However, it’s important to note that these letters do not create new rules but explain how OSHA applies existing standards in specific contexts.

When and Where Are Eye Wash Stations Required?

Eye wash stations are required in workplaces where employees may be exposed to hazardous materials that can cause eye injuries. Some common industries and areas where OSHA eye wash station requirements apply include:

• • Chemical manufacturing and handling facilities

  • Laboratories

  • Battery charging and maintenance areas

  • Healthcare settings

  • Construction sites with potential chemical exposures

Emergency eyewash stations must be located within a 10-second travel time from potential hazard areas. This is generally interpreted as approximately 55 feet, though the actual distance may vary depending on obstacles and the facility's layout. The key is to ensure that employees can quickly access the station in case of an emergency.

What Types of Eye Wash Equipment Meet Standard Requirements?

The most widely used types of eye wash equipment that meet standard requirements are:

1. Plumbed stations: Permanently connected to a potable water supply

2. Self-contained portable stations: Gravity-fed or pressurized units

Both types must meet specific criteria to be considered suitable under OSHA eye wash station requirements:

• • Provide a minimum water flow of 0.4 gallons per minute for at least 15 minutes

  • Deliver tepid water (between 60°F and 100°F)

  • Feature hands-free operation that activates in one second or less

  • Have nozzles protected from airborne contaminants

Read our full article on Plumbed vs Portable Eye Wash Station for a more detailed comparison.

How to Properly Install Eye Wash Stations?

A common reason employers fail inspections is improper installation, even when the equipment itself is ANSI-compliant. Installing an eye wash station involves careful planning to ensure it complies with occupational safety standards and provides an effective emergency response:

1. Determine the Location

Select a site that allows the eye wash station to be reached within 10 seconds of a potential hazard, ideally within 55 feet. Workers must be able to reach the station without having to open a door (especially one that’s locked or requires a badge), navigate around machinery, storage, or equipment, and move through tight or cluttered spaces.

The station must be installed on the same floor as the hazard. Stairs, ladders, or changes in elevation between the workstation and the eyewash station are not permitted.

2. Choose the Right Type

Based on the facility layout and plumbing availability, choose between plumbed, self-contained, or combination units. Plumbed stations offer continuous water flow, while portable units are suitable for remote or temporary sites. Combination units that include both eye/face wash and body showers are recommended for high-risk areas.

3. Install the Eyewash Station

Before installing an eyewash station, the site should be prepared carefully. This includes shutting off the water supply, marking correct mounting points based on the unit’s specifications, and verifying that there is sufficient drainage to manage runoff safely. Installation is typically handled by a licensed plumber or a qualified service provider familiar with both local plumbing codes and the ANSI/ISEA Z358.1 standard.

Some safety equipment suppliers also offer installation support as part of the purchase, which can be a practical option, especially for facilities that are new to emergency equipment requirements.

4. Test the Unit

After installation, conduct an initial test to ensure the flow rate, spray pattern, and water temperature meet standards. Adjust the spray heads if the streams do not align properly or if coverage is uneven. It's also important to verify that the drainage system is functioning correctly to prevent standing water or overflow during use.

5. Signage and Lighting

Place highly visible signage near the eye wash station to ensure quick identification in an emergency. Choose signs that are durable and resistant to environmental wear. The area should be well-lit so users can see clearly even in low visibility situations.

How Many Eye Wash Stations Are Required in a Facility?

No fixed formula specifies the exact number of eyewash stations a facility must have. Instead, the number is determined by evaluating the:

• • Facility size and layout

  • Number of potential hazard areas

  • Employee count and distribution

The key is to ensure that all employees can reach an eye wash station within 10 seconds of any potential hazard. This often results in multiple stations being necessary for larger facilities or those with numerous hazard areas. Some safety professionals use site hazard mapping and employee workflow analysis to decide how many stations are needed.

What Are the Specific Requirements for Eye Wash Station Water?

The water used in an eye wash station must meet specific standards to ensure it is safe, effective, and comfortable for users during emergencies:

• • Tepid temperature: Between 60°F and 100°F (15.6°C to 37.8°C)

  • Potable quality: Free from contaminants and safe for eye flushing

  • Continuous flow: Capable of delivering water for at least 15 minutes

  • Sufficient volume: Minimum flow rate of 0.4 gallons per minute

Flushing fluid that is too cold can discourage users from flushing for the required 15 minutes, while overly hot water can worsen chemical burns. Avoid this by installing a tempering valve or thermostatic mixing system to ensure water stays within the ANSI-specified range.

How Often Should Eyewash Stations Be Inspected According to OSHA?

To ensure compliance with OSHA eye wash station requirements, regular inspections are essential:

• • Weekly: Activate plumbed stations to verify proper operation and flush lines

  • Monthly: Check portable stations for proper fluid levels and condition

  • Annually: Conduct a thorough evaluation of all components and overall performance

Documentation of these inspections is crucial for demonstrating compliance with OSHA eyewash requirements. Employers should maintain records of:

1. Inspection dates and times

2. Person conducting the inspection

3. Any issues identified and corrective actions taken

4. Water temperature and flow rate measurements

According to OSHA, water found in an improperly maintained eyewash station is more likely to become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, Pseudomonas, and Legionella, which can cause serious eye infections.

What Employee Training Is Required for Eye Wash Stations?

To meet OSHA eyewash requirements, employers must provide comprehensive training on the use of eye wash stations. This training should cover:

• • Location of all eye wash stations in the facility

  • Proper activation and use of the equipment, including hands-free use and flushing technique

  • The importance of flushing eyes for the full 15-minute duration

  • Procedures for seeking additional medical attention after using the station

  • Reporting and documentation requirements for eye wash station use

Training should be interactive, scenario-based, and regularly reinforced to build muscle memory and confidence under pressure. Safety professionals’ recommended training methods:

1. Classroom or toolbox talks, short, focused sessions with visuals and Q&A, can reinforce key concepts. 

2. Hands-on practice, using the eyewash station to build familiarity with activation and flushing

3. Short scenario-based drills, where employees are given mock incidents to respond to under time pressure

Regular refresher training should be provided to ensure all employees remain familiar with the proper use of eye wash stations.

How Do Eye Wash Requirements Differ Across Industries?

While the basic OSHA eye wash station requirements apply across all industries, there may be some specific variations:

General Industry:

• • Covered by the 29 CFR 1910.151(c), applies to a wide range of non-construction, non-agriculture industries

  • OSHA releases an instruction that provides guidelines regarding eye wash and body flushing facilities required for immediate emergency use in electric storage battery charging and maintenance areas.

Construction Industry:

• • Covered by the 29 CFR 1926.50(g), which states, “Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials, suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use.”

  • OSHA letter interpretation clarified that “A water hose may be used in conjunction with emergency showers/eyewash stations, but not as a substitute for them.” 

Special considerations:

• • For battery charging areas, the requirement is addressed in 29 CFR 1926.441(a)(6), which states that: “Facilities for quick drenching of the eyes and body shall be provided within 25 feet (7.62 m) of battery handling areas.”

  • For research laboratories, the requirement is addressed in 29 CFR 1910.1030(e)(4)(iii), which states that: “Each work area shall contain a sink for washing hands and a readily available eye wash facility. The sink shall be foot, elbow, or automatically operated and shall be located near the exit door of the work area.”

Employers should consult industry-specific OSHA standards and guidelines to ensure full compliance with eyewash station requirements relevant to their operations.

What Is the Risk of Ignoring OSHA Eyewash Requirements?

Failing to provide and maintain appropriate eyewash stations where required can carry serious consequences for both workers and employers:

• • OSHA citations and fines: Penalties can be substantial, especially for repeat violations

  • Increased risk of workplace injuries: Inadequate eye wash facilities may lead to more severe eye injuries

  • Legal liability: Non-compliance may expose employers to lawsuits from injured employees

  • Reputational damage: Safety violations can harm a company's public image and employee morale

In 2010, OSHA cited a refinery in North Salt Lake, Utah, for failing to maintain functional and accessible emergency eyewash and shower stations in an area where employees handled highly corrosive hydrofluoric acid (HF). Inspectors found that the manual actuator for one station was inoperable, likely due to corrosion from chemical exposure and weather conditions. This was a violation of ANSI Z358.1-2004 Section 4.2, which requires emergency shower actuators to be corrosion-resistant.

A second unit was positioned on an upper level, requiring workers to climb three steps and travel an additional 15 feet to reach it. This condition violated Sections 7.4.2 and 6.4.2 of the same ANSI standard, which mandate that emergency equipment be on the same level and reachable within 10 seconds via a clear, unobstructed path. Although no injuries occurred, OSHA noted that such issues could cause critical delays in emergency response, increasing the risk of severe chemical burns or permanent eye damage.

How Can Employers Ensure Ongoing Compliance?

Even if equipment is correctly installed and functional at the time of inspection, it can quickly fall out of compliance due to a lack of maintenance, supervision, or employee training. To maintain compliance with OSHA eyewash requirements, employers should:

1. Implement a comprehensive eye wash station management program
2. Conduct regular inspections and maintain detailed records
3. Provide ongoing employee training on eye wash station use
4. Stay informed about updates to OSHA standards and industry best practices
5. Foster a culture of safety that prioritizes the proper use and maintenance of eye wash stations

Ongoing compliance with OSHA eye wash station requirements demands a structured approach that includes regular inspections, preventive maintenance, documentation, and employee involvement. When these elements are in place, employers can ensure they meet all OSHA eye wash station requirements and provide a safer work environment for their employees.